An early Christmas present. Yesterday, INEOS formalized its investment in Manchester United. After several months of negotiations and strong competition from Qatar, Sir Jim Ratcliffe managed to join the legendary English club. For this, he paid around 1.3 billion pounds (1.5 billion euros) according to the English press. The news was announced via a press release published on the Red Devils’ official website. “Manchester United today announced that it has entered into an agreement under which INEOS Chairman Sir Jim Ratcliffe will acquire 25% of the Class B shares of Manchester United and up to 25% of the Class A shares of Manchester United, and will provide an additional $300 million to enable future investment at Old Trafford.”
Then, it was then indicated: “As part of the transaction, INEOS has accepted the board’s request to be delegated responsibility for the management of the club’s football operations. This will include all aspects of men’s and women’s football operations and academies, as well as two seats on the board of directors of Manchester United PLC and the board of directors of Manchester United Football Club. A new start for the Premier League team, which will remain in the hands of the Glazer family. But Sir Jim Ratcliffe will have his say, particularly regarding recruitment and the next transfer window which will open in a week. Moreover, the English press is already giving us several interesting pieces of information this December 25.
Several departures and arrivals are planned
To spoil Erik ten Hag and the Manchester fans, the British businessman has some ideas to improve the team in the coming weeks or even months. It’s no secret that Old Trafford needs a world-class number 9. After missing the boat several times with Harry Kane, who is the delight of Bayern Munich, they now have another player in their sights, namely Victor Osimhen. The Naples player is a formidable scorer and at Man U, we are convinced that he is the rare gem according to The Sun. But we will have to be very convincing against Aurelio De Laurentiis, the president of Naples known for being tough in business. Especially since his player has extended his contract until 2026. All with a release clause of between 120 and 130 million euros.
Ready to strengthen in all areas of the game, Manchester United also have their eye on a goalkeeper. David De Gea, former member of the house and free, is favored by the new leader. For the other positions, Frenkie de Jong (FC Barcelona), Gonçalo Inacio (Sporting CP) and Serge Gnabry (Bayern Munich) are the most appreciated elements. For its part, theEvening Standard cites the names of Youssouf Fofana (AS Monaco), Jean-Clair Todibo (OGC Nice) and Roony Bardghji (FC Copenhagen). Beautiful people then. In terms of departures, seven stars are threatened. The Sun cites Jadon Sancho, Casemiro, Raphaël Varane, Antony, Harry Maguire, André Onana and Bruno Fernandes. We can add Anthony Martial, whom the club no longer wants. With 8 players targeted and 8 invited to leave, Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s MU risks changing face. Moreover, it is not certain that Ten Hag will stay in post, since Graham Potter is very popular with INEOS.
